Across the state of Indiana, the Golden Owl Award recognizes outstanding agricultural educators who go above and beyond for their students, their schools, and their communities. This prestigious honor is presented through a partnership between Indiana FFA, Nationwide, and Farm Credit Mid-America. The award celebrates teachers who exemplify excellence in agricultural education and who are shaping the next generation of leaders through FFA.
Each year, agricultural educators are nominated by students, colleagues, parents, and community members. From those nominations, only eight teachers across the entire state are selected as finalists. These finalists receive statewide recognition, a personalized plaque, and a monetary award to support their agricultural education programs. From that group, one teacher is ultimately named Indiana’s Agricultural Educator of the Year and receives the Golden Owl Award trophy and additional funding for their program.
Patriots, we are incredibly proud to announce that Mr. Mike Shirey was selected as one of only eight state finalists for the Golden Owl Award this year!
This recognition speaks volumes about the impact Mr. Shirey has on our students. Through his leadership in FFA, hands-on learning experiences, mentorship, and commitment to excellence, he continues to build not only strong agricultural skills—but strong character and leadership in our students.
Mr. Shirey, thank you for investing in our Patriots, for representing Heritage with pride, and for making a difference every single day.
Please join us in congratulating Mr. Mike Shirey on being named a Golden Owl Award State Finalist!